From California Native Plants, Theodore Payne's 1941 catalog: "Of all our native shrubs, there is none more beautiful than this wild cherry with its rich, deep green holly-like foliage and sprays of white flowers. Of dense spreading habit and fairly rapid growth, it is extremely hardy, standing both heat and cold. It is not at all particular about soil and will thrive without any water other than the natural rainfall after once becoming established. At the same time it will stand ordinary garden culture. It likes a sunny location but will grow well in the shade. There is no end to the places where this shrub can be used effectively. For foundation planting against a building or wall. As single specimen plants for for mass plantings. For screen plantings or for covering banks and hillsides. It makes the most beautiful hedge allowed to grow informally or trimmed, while for decorating purposes the cut sprays have no equal. Gallon cans, 40c; 5 gallon cans, $1.75."